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  • Buying used Pixel 6 Pro. Are there "flavors" to avoid?

I'm gonna buy a used Pixel 6 Pro and give GOS a try. Is it possible to tell by a model number (or other identifier) if a specific phone is factory unlocked or was previously locked to a network (Verizon, T-Mobile, etc...)? Or is this not even an issue?

Basically, what should I avoid and how can I verify I'm not buying the wrong phone?

Thanks!

    Critter Avoid any Verizon or AT&T phones. All phones sold from them have locked bootloaders. Even if it says it's unlocked, that just means it's "carrier unlocked" which means you can use any sim, but the bootloader will still be locked.

    I would look for a phone that was originally purchased directly from Google (Never associated with any carrier) and specifically ask if it is bootloader unlocked (not just carrier unlocked.) Keep in mind unlocked devices are more desirable and so they may be less common on the used phone market.

      roddyd

      Thanks for the reply. I'm coming to the conclusion that Pixels don't have carrier-specific model numbers, like some other phones do, in which otherwise identical phones sold through different carriers (or factory unlocked) will have different model numbers. If this is the case, I guess I'm left to trust the sellers.

        Critter I'm not sure if the model numbers are any different, you may be able to find that information elsewhere. But generally be willing to ask questions to make sure you're getting the right phone.

        roddyd Avoid any Verizon or AT&T phones. All phones sold from them have locked bootloaders

        Not accurate, all Verizon phones do have locked bootloaders that cannot be unlocked, but not ATT

          f13a-6c3a Good point. Unlocked from a carrier is not the same as an unlocked bootloader. So AT&T Pixels that are unlocked for use on any carrier can also have their bootloaders unlocked, yes?

            Critter Even if some AT&T phones have unlocked bootloaders, that isn't guaranteed by being carrier unlocked.

            Critter So AT&T Pixels that are unlocked for use on any carrier can also have their bootloaders unlocked, yes

            Yes

            16 days later